With Mardi Gras approaching quickly, many students are starting to lose their ability to focus on anything other than parades and partying. However, I believe that the Mardi Gras Season is the perfect time to think about other similar events going on in the world. Starting Saturday, March 5th, is Carnival in Rio de Janeiro. Carnival is derived from the ancient Greek and Roman celebrations of the Rites of Spring. Nowadays, the Carnival season is a time for Masquerade Balls, parades, dressing up, and having fun. For more information on Carnival in Brazil, follow this link.